Vulcan County Emergency Services Urges Residents to Power Up Their Devices with Fire Safety in Mind
The theme for Fire Prevention Week™ (FPW™), October 4–10, 2026, is “Charge into Fire Safety™: Safe Charging Is a Superpower.”

The Vulcan County Emergency Services is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association^® (NFPA^®) to support Fire Prevention Week. This year’s FPW theme, “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” focuses on the simple steps people can take to recharge safely. Many devices used in our daily lives – phones, tablets, laptops, tools, toys, e-bikes, and scooters—run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which store a lot of energy in a small space. If they are damaged or charged the wrong way, they can overheat, start a fire, or even explode.

Some important tips include:

• Use the cord and charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer. Using the wrong charger can damage the battery and increase the risk of fire.
• Charge devices on a table, desk, or other hard surface. Do not charge them on beds, couches, or under pillows. Devices and chargers produce heat during normal charging. Soft surfaces can trap heat and block airflow, which can cause the battery to overheat.
• Stop using your device if it feels hot, starts to swell, is smoking, or has a strange smell. These are warning signs that the battery may be damaged.
• Unplug your device when it is fully charged. Do not leave it plugged in longer than needed. Leaving a device plugged in too long can increase heat and stress on the battery.
• Charge larger items like e-bikes, scooters, and power tools outside and away from exits.  These batteries are larger and store more energy. If they fail, fires can grow quickly.
• When on a plane, keep your device where you can see it while charging. Do not charge devices in overhead compartments. If a battery overheats or fails, it is important for the flight crew to respond quickly.

Check out these youth Fire Prevention Week contests:

1. Vulcan County Coloring Contest!
   Students can print off or pick up a coloring sheet to submit to their local firehall for a chance to win some great prizes.
   Coloring sheets
   Contest: October 5 – October 30
   Draw Date: November 3
   
2. Calling all Kindergarten to Grade 7 Students, enter to win a Nintendo Switch 2!
   Students can take part in the contest while learning how they can help promote fire prevention and protect themselves, their families, and their community.
   Contest Link
   Contest: September 29 – November 1
   Draw Date: November 15

For more information about Fire Prevention Week, or the contests above, contact our Fire Prevention Officer.

To learn more about lithium-ion battery safety, visit fpw.org.